| Subject | Contents |
| Definition | A collection of pus in the pleural space (the cavity between the lung and the membrane that surrounds it). |
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| Causes, incidence, and risk factors | Empyema is caused by an infection that spreads from the lung and leads to an accumulation of pus in the pleural space. The infected fluid can build up to a quantity of a pint or more, which puts pressure on the lungs, causing shortness of breath and pain. Risk factors include recent pulmonary (lung) conditions including bacterial pneumonia , lung abscess , thoracic surgery, trauma or injury to the chest, or rarely, thoracentesis (a needle inserted through the chest wall to draw off fluid in the pleural space). |
| Symptoms | a dry cough a fever and chillsexcessive sweating , especially night sweats general discomfort, uneasiness, or ill feeling ( malaise )weight losschest pain , worse on deep inspiration (inhalation) |
| Signs and tests | Abnormal findings, such as decreased breath sounds or a friction rub, may be noted when listening to the chest with a stethoscope ( auscultation ). Tests include:chest X-ray thoracentesis (putting a needle in the chest to drain the fluid) pleural fluid gram stain and culture |
| Treatment | The goal of treatment is to cure the infection and remove the collection of pus from the lung. Antibiotics are prescribed to control the infection. A doctor will place a chest tube to completely drain the pus. A surgeon may need to perform a decortication (peeling away the lining of the lung) if the lung does not expand properly. |
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| Expectations (prognosis) | Usually empyema does not result in permanent pulmonary damage. |
| Complications | A possible complication is pleural thickening. |
| Calling your health care provider | Call your health care provider if symptoms of empyema develop. |
| Prevention | Prompt treatment of pulmonary (lung) infections may prevent some cases of empyema. |
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